Lightning News

World Junior Championships: Brayden Point takes home gold with Canada

by
Doug Spencer
/ Tampa Bay Lightning

The 2015 IIHF World Junior Championships came to a close on Monday with Canada prevailing over team Russia to capture the gold medal. The tournament featured many prominent players, many of whom have been drafted by NHL teams.

The Tampa Bay Lightning were fortunate to have three of their top prospects selected to their respective countries’ rosters, with Brayden Point winning a gold medal as a member of Team Canada.

In case you missed the tournament, here is what the Bolts’ prospects did.

Brayden Point

As mentioned above, Point captured a gold medal on Monday night with Team Canada. He finished the tournament with a respectable two goals and four points through seven games, but saved his best performance for the championship game. Point showcased his dynamic speed and playmaking ability in setting up Canada’s second goal. He was buzzing around the ice the whole game, winning a few key battles in the corners and creating chances offensively.

Anthony DeAngelo

While many might say the Americans underachieved at the tournament, DeAngelo was one of the bright spots. He finished paced the D in points and also managed to finish fourth on the team, with two goals and three points in five games. DeAngelo fired an impressive 16 shots on net during the five games, which tied for third on Team USA. His offensive skill-set was on display throughout the tournament.

Dominik Masin

His lone assist in five games may have understated Masin’s impact for the Czech Republic. However, he was an anchor on the blue line and helped turn the Czech offense into a quick counter-attack machine. Masin was at his best in the Czech Republic vs. Russia game, one that the Czechs needed to win to stay in the tournament. He made many good outlet passes to clear the puck out of the zone while also aiding in the transition game. He is a calm, cool, and collected defender who does not panic under pressure. This demeanor will help in the pros, as there is a constant sense of pressure.